Page 684 - war-and-peace

the army are innumerable. Though he is a GermanI con-
gratulate him! I can’t make out what the commander at
Korchevoa certain Khandrikovis up to; till now the addi-
tional men and provisions have not arrived. Gallop off to
him at once and say I’ll have his head off if everything is
not here in a week. Have received another letter about the
Preussisch-Eylau battle from Petenkahe took part in itand
it’s all true. When mischief-makers don’t meddle even a
German beats Buonaparte. He is said to be fleeing in great
disorder. Mind you gallop off to Korchevo without delay
and carry out instructions!
Prince Andrew sighed and broke the seal of another en-
velope. It was a closely written letter of two sheets from
Bilibin. He folded it up without reading it and reread his fa-
ther’s letter, ending with the words: ‘Gallop off to Korchevo
and carry out instructions!’
‘No, pardon me, I won’t go now till the child is better,’
thought he, going to the door and looking into the nursery.
Princess Mary was still standing by the cot, gently rock-
ing the baby.
‘Ah yes, and what else did he say that’s unpleasant?’
thought Prince Andrew, recalling his father’s letter. ‘Yes,
we have gained a victory over Bonaparte, just when I’m not
serving. Yes, yes, he’s always poking fun at me.... Ah, well!
Let him!’ And he began reading Bilibin’s letter which was
written in French. He read without understanding half of
it, read only to forget, if but for a moment, what he had too
long been thinking of so painfully to the exclusion of all
else.

684 War and Peace